Bible Commentary / Bible Study of Mark 12: 38-44

Wesley's Notes

38. Beware of the scribes - There was an absolute necessity for these repeated
cautions. For, considering their inveterate prejudices against Christ, it could
never be supposed the common people would receive the Gospel till these
incorrigible blasphemers of it were brought to just disgrace. Yet he delayed
speaking in this manner till a little before his passion, as knowing what effect
it would quickly produce. Nor is this any precedent for us: we are not invested
with the same authority. Matt. xxiii, 5; Luke xx, 46.

41. He beheld how people cast money into the treasury - This treasury received
the voluntary contributions of the worshippers who came up to the feast; which
were given to buy wood for the altar, and other necessaries not provided for in
any other way. Luke xxi, 1.

43. I say to you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all - See
what judgement is cast on the most specious, outward actions by the Judge of
all! And how acceptable to him is the smallest, which springs from self-denying
love!